Leaves Literary Festival 2016

The 2016 Laois Leaves Festival celebrates the diverse rich talent in today’s literary, film and music scene.

9th November to 13th November 2016

An intimate evening of readings and music at the recently opened Library of Civilisation in Roundwood House, Mountrath features Peter Fallon and VonaGroarke of Gallery Press, joined by former Laois-Writer-in-Residence, EoinMcNamee and Musician, Colm Mac an Iomaire. This event will be chaired by Seamus Hosey and commences at 8.00pm on Friday 11th Nov.

The Dunamaise Arts Centre is the venue for Saturday’s events. Mary Ó Donnell conducts a Poetry Workshop. Arthur Broomfield’s collection of poetry, “Cold Coffee at Emo Court” will be launched. This is followed by an Open Mic Event. A one week’s residency at the LaoisArthouse apartment will be awarded to the most compelling presentation at the Open Mic event. The book launch and Open Mic commence at 3.00pm and admission is free.

The crime fiction night at the Dunamaise Arts Centre is much anticipated and features writers Louise Phillips, Niamh O Connor, Andrea Carter and visiting Norwegian, Thomas Enger. Music is by Rachel Clancy and the evening is chaired by Sean Rocks presenter of Arena, Radio 1. This commences at 8.00pm.

Children and young people’s events include a visit by OisínMcGann and Dave Rudden. The scheduled film is In the Heart of the Sea which is inspired by Melville’s great novel Moby Dick. Theatre includes a family love story, called, “Minding Frankie”, by MaeveBinchy and a classical music concert in the Church of Ireland, Portlaoise featuring AnneleenLenearts(Harp) and DionysisGrammenos(Clarinet).

Welcome to the Laois Leaves Festival and we look forward to sharing some of the magic that is in store.